I love that the verb adulting is now officially in multiple reputable dictionaries. I know you’re curious about the definition, so here’s Oxford’s: “The practice of behaving in a way characteristic of a responsible adult, especially the accomplishment of mundane but necessary tasks.”

In case you’re not familiar with this word, adulting is not generally viewed as a positive thing. “Adulting is hard” is a common sentiment I hear (and sometimes feel myself). 

What’s tough about adult life is that a lot of the burden rests on you. Being a grown-up requires a lot of work, and it can feel a little lonely. When your whole family’s got the flu, who’s there to take care of you, the mom? When your business is in crisis but you’re the boss, who’s there to give you a pep talk? How do you grieve a death when the person who typically comforts you is the one in the coffin? It’s easy to lose heart or even your faith.

I know you know that you’re not carrying the load yourself, but I want to remind you. Jesus is tending to you—your spiritual life and your earthly life—with more care and compassion than you can imagine. Isaiah 40:11 says, “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” (I love how those last few words encourage me as a mom of a toddler!) Adulting isn’t easy, but a powerful, loving God is carrying me.